SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – Just three weeks ago, the Forest Park Pool in Springfield shut down temporarily due to vandalism and unruly behavior.
Summer school in Springfield closing early due to heat Things have been going a lot smoother, Facilities Director Joe Federico says that the news conference that they held last month sent a message to those kids that were ruining the pool and splash pads for those looking for some relief from the heat.
Last month broken glass was found in the pool, a group of kids were jumping the fence and doing flips off the lifeguard chairs and even verbally assaulting staff before the pools opened. They even went as far as slashing the tires of a police cruiser at the park.
Federico told 22News that it’s been incredibly helpful to have around-the-clock surveillance at the pool to ensure everyone’s safety, “I think just the presence of them alone you know they don’t always even have to come inside the pool. You often see them just outside in their vehicles just outside the area just so they are present and they’re known the public knows about it and just a little friendly reminder to the public to act accordingly.”
Federico says that his lifeguards are happy about this extra help from local law enforcement as well. Saying that everyone can just relax and enjoy the amenities at the park. With this hot weather continuing this week he encourages everyone to get their free pool passes.
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